Parents should work with teachers to help children learn

Hundreds of young children started school this year. One says, “Mommy, it’s so long,” and it is, after such carefree times. A year is a huge slice of a child’s life. Normally, the place where a child spends up to seven hours a day becomes a second home. They grow up so fast when they start school. Children who are suddenly thrown into strange surroundings need all the reassurance possible.

Visiting the school for ourselves may allay some of the child’s fears as well as ours. We need dedicated teachers and parents taking constructive interest in our schools. We can assure our children that our teachers and schools are doing what’s best for them. The world is harsh, not always fair for everyone. We can talk with our teachers when problems arise and be patient when things go awry. This may not be a wasted school year with teacher, parent and child cooperating.

When a child has problems in school, he may need professional help — emotional, mental or medical. School personnel must use patience and understanding toward the child. Suspension in the home may not be the best solution. Most children who are home from school are left alone, as parents work.

When you realize how short your children’s childhoods are, you want to hold them back. You imagine them squirming in their seats, talking out, puzzling over a word, learning reading and writing. One’s child is a most treasured possession. Having faith in our public school system, we must act with positive attitudes and express our appreciation to our teachers and principals for all they do.